Publisher description

The need for alternate energy sources has led to the develop ment of prototype fusion and MHD reactors. Both possible energy systems in current designs usually require the use of magnetic fields for plasma confinement and concentration. For the creation and maintenance of large 5 to 15 tesla magnetic fields, supercon ducting magnets appear more economical. But the high magnetic fields create large forces, and the complexities of the conceptual reactors create severe space restrictions. The combination of re quirements, plus the desire to keep construction costs at a mini mum, has created a need for stronger structural alloys for service at liquid helium temperature (4 K). The complexity of the required structures requires that these alloys be weldable. Furthermore, since the plasma is influenced by magnetic fields and since magnet ic forces from the use of ferromagnetic materials in many configur ations may be additive, the best structural alloy for most applica tions should be nonmagnetic. These requirements have led to consideration of higher strength austenitic steels. Strength increases at low temperatures are achieved by the addition of nitrogen. The stability of the austenitic structure is retained by adding manganese instead of nickel, which is more expensive. Research to develop these higher strength austenitic steels is in process, primarily in Japan and the United States.

Materials and Structures in Cold Regions: The Impact of Low Temperatures on Construction Materials and the Structural Behaviour of Structural Members is based on the latest research undertaken at Tianjin University, P.R. China and National University of Singapore. The book provides detailed experimental research on the influences of low temperatures on the mechanical properties of constructional materials and structural behavior of typical structural members at low temperatures, e.g., beams, columns, and walls. The theoretical and numerical models in the book on structural members at low temperatures simplifies and provides guidelines for structural engineers working on cold-region projects.The book blends the fundamental development of concepts with the practical specification of materials and structures at low temperatures. - Provides detailed experimental research on the influence of low temperatures on the mechanical properties of constructional materials, and structural behavior of typical structural members at low temperatures, e.g., beams, columns, and walls - Covers fundamental development of concepts, with the practical specification of materials and structures at low temperatures - Presents the latest research, undertaken at Tianjin University, P.R. China and the National University of Singapore, Singapore

This book assesses the state of the art of coatings materials and processes for gas-turbine blades and vanes, determines potential applications of coatings in high-temperature environments, identifies needs for improved coatings in terms of performance enhancements, design considerations, and fabrication processes, assesses durability of advanced coating systems in expected service environments, and discusses the required inspection, repair, and maintenance methods. The promising areas for research and development of materials and processes for improved coating systems and the approaches to increased coating standardization are identified, with an emphasis on materials and processes with the potential for improved performance, quality, reproducibility, or manufacturing cost reduction.